· GB

Saltash

Saltash, Cornwall, United Kingdom

Saltash, located in Cornwall, United Kingdom, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Situated on the banks of the River Tamar, Saltash serves as the gateway to Co…

#Coastal town#Historic landmarks#River Tamar#Cornish architecture#Gateway to Cornwall

1/2

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Saltash.

Top Hotels in Saltash

Top Flights to Saltash

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Saltash.

Tours

Saltash Waterfront

Explore the scenic views of the River Tamar and enjoy a relaxing walk along Saltash Waterfront.

Saltash Heritage Trail

Walk through history with the Saltash Heritage Trail, exploring historical buildings and landmarks.

Shopping

Fore Street Shopping

Enjoy local shopping at Fore Street with a variety of boutique and vintage shops.

Outdoor

Tamar Valley AONB

Discover the beauty of Tamar Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with various trails and wildlife.

China Fleet Country Club

Enjoy a variety of leisure activities including golf, spa, and health club facilities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Saltash.

Currency

£ | GBP | Pound Sterling

Population

Information not available.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Saltash

Jan

8°3°

Feb

8°3°

Mar

10°4°

Apr

12°5°

May

15°8°

Jun

18°11°

Jul

20°13°

Aug

20°13°

Sep

18°11°

Oct

15°9°

Nov

11°6°

Dec

9°4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Saltash.

What people love

Saltash, located in Cornwall, United Kingdom, is a charming town with several pros for travelers to consider:

Picturesque Location: Saltash is situated on the banks of the River Tamar, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Gateway to Cornwall: As one of the first towns you encounter when entering Cornwall from Devon, Saltash serves as a gateway to exploring the beautiful region of Cornwall.
Historic Sites: The town has a rich history, with notable sites such as the Saltash Waterside, Saltash Guildhall, and the Royal Albert Bridge, providing insights into its past.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Local Cuisine: Saltash is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes serving delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Cornish pasties.
Convenient Transportation: With its proximity to Plymouth and good transportation links, Saltash is easily accessible by road, rail, and water, making it a convenient destination for travelers.

Overall, Saltash's picturesque location, historic charm, outdoor activities, local cuisine, and convenient transportation options make it a great destination for travelers looking to explore Cornwall and relax by the river.

What to know

Traveling to Saltash in Cornwall, United Kingdom may have a few cons that travelers should consider. Here are some detailed cons of traveling to Saltash:

Limited Public Transportation: Saltash is a relatively small town, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around the area without a car.
Weather: The weather in Cornwall can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and wind. Travelers should be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially if planning outdoor activities.
Tourist Crowds: During the peak tourist season, Saltash and the surrounding areas can get crowded with visitors. This may lead to longer wait times at popular attractions and restaurants.
Limited Nightlife: Saltash is a quiet town with a limited nightlife scene. Travelers looking for vibrant nightlife may need to travel to nearby cities like Plymouth for more options.
Limited Accommodation Options: While there are accommodation options in Saltash, the selection may be more limited compared to larger tourist destinations. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Limited Dining Options: While Saltash has some lovely dining options, the selection may not be as diverse as in larger cities. Travelers with specific dietary preferences or looking for a wide range of culinary experiences may find options limited.

Overall, Saltash offers a charming and picturesque setting for travelers looking to explore the Cornwall region. However, it's essential to be aware of these potential cons when planning a trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Saltash, located in Cornwall, United Kingdom, is a town with a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is situated on the western bank of the River Tamar, opposite Plymouth in Devon.

Early History

Saltash is believed to have been established by the Normans following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The town grew around a ferry crossing that linked Cornwall to the rest of England, a crucial connection given Cornwall's peninsular geography. The original settlement was known as "Essa" or "Esa."

Medieval Period

During the medieval period, Saltash developed into a significant port and market town. It was granted a charter by King Richard I in 1197, which allowed it to hold markets and fairs, boosting its economy and importance in the region. The town prospered from fishing and trade, particularly in salt and tin.

The Civil War

Saltash played a role in the English Civil War in the 17th century. The town was occupied by Royalist forces but was later captured by Parliamentarians, showcasing its strategic importance due to its position near the River Tamar and proximity to Plymouth.

The Industrial Revolution

The construction of the Royal Albert Bridge in 1859 by the famous engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel was a pivotal moment for Saltash. This railway bridge connected Cornwall to the rest of England via the Great Western Railway, significantly enhancing trade and communication. The bridge remains a crucial piece of infrastructure and a notable landmark.

20th Century to Present

Saltash continued to grow throughout the 20th century, particularly as a residential area for people working in Plymouth. The town also saw developments in infrastructure and community amenities.

Notable Landmarks

Royal Albert Bridge: Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it is one of the most significant engineering achievements of the 19th century. The bridge carries the railway line across the River Tamar.
Saltash Heritage Centre: Offers insights into the local history and culture of Saltash and the surrounding area.
Burraton Coombe: A picturesque valley that provides scenic views and walking paths.
St. Nicholas and St. Faith Church: An historic parish church with medieval origins, located in the heart of Saltash.

Cultural Significance

Saltash maintains a strong sense of community with annual events and festivals that celebrate its history and culture, such as the Saltash May Fair and the Saltash Regatta.

Overall, Saltash is a town that has evolved significantly over the centuries, reflecting broader historical changes in the region and country. It is both a historical site and a modern community, with its heritage visibly influencing its present character.